Charming Shanghai and Water Town Tour
If you are a first-time visitor, don't miss this tour! With new ways to explore Shanghai's most popular and representative attractions, you will have a better understanding of this huge city.
Explore old and new Shanghai, avoid tourist routes to explore unique points along the Bund, listen to anecdotes about the former French Concession, and relax in a rowing boat in Zhujiajiao Water Town.
We always welcome your thoughts on this tour! Each part can be tailored to your interests.
Tour 'Wow' Points
Follow Our Insider's Route to Explore the Real Shanghai.
Embark on an adventure tracing the saga of Shanghai's transformation to a towering metropolis.


Indulge in Authentic Local Cuisine.
Try Xiaolongbao, a type of steamed dumpling with delicate skin and a flavorful filling. When you eat, the broth is released as you bite into the dumpling.


Observe the Old-fashioned Residences in an Ancient Water Town
Zhujiajiao combines serenity of canals and old town charm, representing Shanghai's rich history and culture.


See the Unique Blend of Chinese and French Influences.
Immerse yourself in the architectural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary and shopping paradise of the Shanghai French Concession.


Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

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Another excellent guide: Martin (0804)
![]() Martin our guide on this segment of our trip was just a good as the other 2. Patient, attentive and flexible. The places we visited were interesting and he even accommodated us to go eat xialongbao. He had us discover other food. We enjoyed his knowledge and all he had to offer above and beyond his duty, including helping us with navigating the subway for the next day when he was no longer taking care of us. I also highly recommend Martin (0804). more
Mar 2025, Curiosity247757
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Great day in Shanghai with Mulan
![]() Mulan was a fantastic guide. We learned a lot from her and she personalized the tour as she spoke with us. She took extra special care of us making it a wonderful experience. We highly recommend her for your Shanghai visit more
Mar 2025, susangendron60
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Shanghai guided tour
![]() We loved our two day tour of Shanghai, which is just the start of our two week holiday in China. Our guide Qi was full of knowledge and enthusiasm. She was very helpful in explaining history and local customs. We tried many different foods (actually we ate a lot!). Highlights for us were the views from Shanghai Tower, breakfast at the local market and the visits to Old Town and Zhujiajiao ancient water town. more
Mar 2025, Megan H
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Suggested Itinerary
Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour according to your interests and schedule.
Your private guide will be waiting for you in the airport arrivals hall or in your hotel's lobby. A comfortable vehicle (non-smoking) with an experienced driver will be ready for you to explore Shanghai.
Visit Yu Garden, which is a delicate classical garden that is hidden among high buildings. You will hear interesting stories about its former owner, and learn why its dragon wall almost killed its former owner.
Walking along the Bund, you will learn about Shanghai's rise. Your guide will take you into historical buildings where you can touch the old items and he/she will tell you stories about their past.
Wander through alleyways to get a glimpse of the locals' lifestyles. Your guide will take you to a famous local restaurant to taste Shanghai's most typical snack — xiaolongbao (steamed buns). Learn the proper way to eat one or you will burn your mouth!
Be like a local as you hop on a public ferry among the crowds to cross the Huangpu River and slowly travel from old Shanghai to Shanghai's Pudong New Area.
Take the fastest elevator in the world and ascend the highest building in Shanghai — the Shanghai Tower. You can enjoy seeing the Oriental Pearl TV Tower below you and get a bird's-eye view of the entire city.
Wander in the former French Concession where your guide will tell you stories about the buildings and the colonial history. Pass by the stylish buildings constructed a century ago and try to find a famous one.
Next, your guide will take you to a hidden treasure of art — the Propaganda Poster Art Centre. There, you will find exaggerated posters that record the history of the Mao era, and your curiosity about communism will be satisfied.
Enjoy a relaxing afternoon in Zhujiajiao Water Town. Walk over the bridges and by the river, and relax in a rowing boat. This lovely town will make you forget that you are next to a big city.
After Zhujiajiao Water Town, your tour guide and driver will escort you to the airport or train station and wave goodbye.
Tour Price
Price includes: